Children can better recognise and manage their emotions following an NSPCC programme delivered to hundreds of primary school pupils in Govan, researchers have found.
The Emotional Resilience programme was created by NSPCC’s Together for Childhood (TfC) Govan project after teachers told them that children were struggling with their ‘big feelings’ when they returned to classrooms after the Covid-19 lockdowns.
The sessions, which include mindfulness, fun games and songs, are designed to increase children’s confidence in recognising and managing their emotions – to improve their wellbeing, behaviour and emotional development.
The programme was delivered by the TfC team in seven Govan primary schools from 2021 to 2024, reaching approximately 799 pupils. Since the evaluation of the programme, sessions for early learning and childcare settings – co-created with Kirktonholme Nursery – have been delivered to three nurseries in Govan.
The Emotional Resilience resources are now being rolled out to schools in Govan so that teachers can continue to deliver the programme.
A deeper dive into the results of the programme by staff in the NSPCC’s research and evidence team revealed that children who took part have benefitted by being emotionally supported.
The findings, summarised in a report1, showed that children learned how to identify different feelings and gained a better ability to recognise the emotions of others and empathise with them. Many children had learned and practiced self-care techniques to manage their emotions, and some had even shared what they had been taught with members of their families. They were also able to name trusted adults and felt more confident to seek support.
Prajapa Seneviratne, Research and Evaluation Officer with TfC Govan, said: “We found that The Emotional Resilience programme has clear benefits for children and schools.
“It has helped children to feel nurtured in their learning environment, giving them confidence to form trusting relationships that can aid them to learn and achieve.
“The findings show that there is a need for emotional resilience programmes in primary and nursery schools in Govan, and more widely across Scotland, as the benefits of the programme align with the Health and Wellbeing goals of the Curriculum for Excellence in Scotland.
“Improving children’s awareness of and skills in emotional resilience at the earliest point, in a supportive school environment, can lay a strong foundation upon which they can achieve and thrive.”
The evaluation of the programme’s results also revealed that teachers had improved connection with pupils and understanding of their lives, helping them to better support the children and respond promptly to safeguarding concerns.
Kirsty Aitken, Assistant Director NSPCC Scotland, said: “This report powerfully underscores the importance of nurturing emotional resilience in children from the earliest stages of life.
“Emotional resilience is crucial to a child’s development and ability to cope, adapt and thrive as they grow up – even in the face of adversity. It is key for managing stress, coping with change and transitions, and maintaining healthy mental wellbeing throughout life.
“By fostering confidence in recognising and expressing ‘big feelings’ we lay the groundwork for stronger wellbeing and resilience as children navigate the complexities of growing up.
“The report’s findings offer clear, compelling insights into what children need to thrive emotionally. It is imperative that we create intentional space to truly listen to their voices – and respond with care and commitment.”
A facilitator’s guide for the programme has been given to all primary schools in Govan. Teachers have said they plan to use the session plans with their ‘nurture classes’ and with children who need additional support with ‘big feelings’.
A guide for early years education settings in Scotland is also being developed, following a successful pilot of an adapted version of the programme delivered by early learning and childcare staff.
For a copy of either facilitator guide or more information, please email: Scotland1@nspcc.org.uk
Children can contact Childline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, on 0800 1111 or go to www.childline.org.uk about any worries or concerns they may have.
Parenting advice and support is available by contacting the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk or visit the NSPCC website.
This project was made possible by funding from the National Lottery Community Fund, and we would like to thank National Lottery players for their support.
We would also like to thank Glasgow City Council, the Scottish Government, our local partner, Govan HELP, and everyone else who has supported this project.
